CHAPTER XIII – Thuvia, Maid of Mars begins with Carthoris assuming the identity of Turjun, a panthan serving Dusar, as a strategic response to the political quagmire caused by a brewing war between Helium and Dusar. The conflict, born of manipulation and hidden agendas, has placed Carthoris in the midst of his enemies, where revealing his true identity would lead to capture—or worse. Adopting this new role allows him to move unseen through the ranks of Dusarian forces, keeping him close to key conspirators while he plans to protect Helium’s interests and rescue Thuvia.

The chapter intensifies as Carthoris observes the interplay between Vas Kor and Astok, whose ambition and cowardice blend into a dangerous scheme. They speak openly of Thuvia’s abduction and the planned deception meant to ignite war while eliminating her as a political obstacle. Carthoris realizes that if he does not intervene soon, Thuvia may fall victim to a crime designed to plunge Barsoom into chaos, a crime that would dishonor Helium and endanger peace across several cities.

With quiet resolve, Carthoris uses his cover to gain closer access to the “Thuria,” the airship chosen for the plot’s final stage. He’s joined by Kar Komak, a spirited and loyal warrior displaced from the mental cities of Lothar, whose illusions can manifest into formidable weaponry. Their alliance, built on shared purpose and mutual trust, becomes a formidable asset as they plot from within. Onboard the Thuria, Carthoris keeps his intentions hidden while watching every move Vas Kor and Astok make, all while working out how best to disrupt their treachery without alerting the crew.

Despite being surrounded by enemies, Carthoris remains calm, knowing one wrong move could expose him. His mind constantly scans for opportunities to strike while also weighing the consequences of miscalculation. His dedication to Thuvia isn’t portrayed solely as romantic yearning but as a noble obligation to protect someone innocent from being used as a pawn in a greater war. This sense of purpose gives him clarity and direction in a situation designed to disorient.

Kar Komak’s background as a man once bound by illusions yet now acting as a flesh-and-blood ally mirrors the deceptive circumstances they find themselves navigating. His skills in combat and his unique understanding of Lotharian mind control offer an edge that conventional warriors lack. Carthoris relies on this partnership, and their coordination proves vital as they learn more about where Thuvia is being held and how the assassination plot will unfold.

The deeper theme of honor amid espionage surfaces as Carthoris reflects on his position. Though he wears the armor of his enemies, his actions remain deeply loyal to Helium and its ideals. He is disgusted by the deceit he witnesses among the Dusarian nobles, and yet he understands that sometimes subterfuge is the only way to prevent greater bloodshed. His sense of justice fuels his desire to protect Thuvia, not for glory but to preserve peace and prevent innocent blood from becoming a justification for war.

As the Thuria glides through Barsoom’s sky, tension builds. Carthoris and Kar Komak edge closer to a point of action, planning to intercept Thuvia’s captors before the final blow can be struck. With each overheard conversation and veiled threat, the urgency to act increases. The stakes grow higher—not only Thuvia’s life but the fate of Ptarth, Helium, and Dusar hang in the balance.

The chapter concludes on a precipice, with Carthoris’s dual identity giving him an edge but also placing him in extreme peril. His mind and blade are ready, but the danger is mounting, and time is running out. This installment reveals not only the complexities of Martian diplomacy but the personal trials endured by those who must act in silence to prevent war. Through clever maneuvering, unwavering loyalty, and the quiet courage of a man in disguise, the chapter sets the tone for a high-stakes rescue mission that could determine the future of Barsoom.